WASHINGTON (AP)  The Democratic-controlled House pushed through a $410 billion measure Wednesday that boosted domestic programs, bristled with earmarks and chipped away at policies left behind by the Bush administration. The vote was 245-178, largely along party lines.

Among the earmarks was one sponsored by Rep. Howard Berman, D-Calif., who secured $200,000 for a "tattoo removal violence outreach program" in Los Angeles.

I think I recall that the tatoos brand them as obligated to a particular gang. That is because once they join, they are considered in it for life and the only way out is death.
(Sort of like the mafia.) Tatoo removal provides them with an exit out of the gang life and its claim on him.

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